New federal data show outdoor recreation contributed $3.6 billion to New Mexico’s economy and supported more than 31,000 jobs in 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA).
In 2024, outdoor recreation accounted for 2.5% of the state’s GDP and supported 31,454 jobs. RVing, boating and fishing, and snow activities remain the state’s largest economic drivers, while recreational flying was the fastest-growing activity at 12% year-over-year growth.
“New Mexico has tremendous assets — from our public lands to our outdoor businesses — that position us to compete in this growing sector,” said New Mexico Economic Development Department Cabinet Secretary Rob Black. “The outdoor recreation industry creates jobs and opportunity while improving the quality of life for New Mexicans and improving the visitor experience for our guests.”
At the national level, outdoor recreation accounted for 5.2 million jobs (3.2% of U.S. employment) and contributed 2.4% of U.S. GDP in 2024. The outdoor recreation economy now generates more than $1.3 trillion in economic output, outpacing industries such as farming, mining and utilities.
In 2019, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham identified outdoor recreation as a target industry for economic growth. She signed legislation creating the state’s Outdoor Recreation Division, an office within the Economic Development Department that same year.
Since then, the division has invested $33.9 million in trails and outdoor infrastructure projects and awarded $8.7 million through the Outdoor Equity Fund, helping more than 106,000 youth access outdoor experiences.
“Outdoor recreation is not just part of New Mexico’s culture, it’s a powerful driver of our economy,” said Karina Armijo, director of the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division. “With 31,454 jobs and $3.6 billion in economic value, the outdoor recreation sector is helping strengthen communities across the state. Continued investment in trails, outdoor access and youth programs ensures more New Mexicans can experience the outdoors while supporting local economies.”
Key highlights from the 2024 BEA data include*:
- Recreational flying, hunting/shooting/trapping, and climbing/hiking/tent camping were the fastest-growing activities, increasing 12%, 5.3% and 2.4% year-over-year respectively
- Since 2012, outdoor recreation’s contribution to New Mexico’s GDP has grown at a compound annual growth rate of 5.3%
- Since 2012, the number of outdoor recreation jobs in New Mexico has increased by 10.5%
*BEA began tracking the outdoor recreation economy in 2012.